AP Government - Vocabulary Quiz Term List #24

Amicus Curiae Brief

A brief filed by an individual or organization to present arguments in addition to those presented by the immediate parties to a case.

Judicial Review

The power of a court to refuse to enforce a law or government regulation that conflicts with the U.S. Constitution.

Justiciable Dispute

A dispute growing out of an actual case or controversy capable of settlement by legal methods.

Defendant

In a criminal action, the person or party accused of an offense.

Plea Bargain

Agreement between a prosecutor and a defendant where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser offense.

Public Defender System

Arrangement for public officials to provide legal assistance to those unable to afford an attorney.

Court of Appeals

A court with appellate jurisdiction that hears appeals from lower courts.

Writ of Habeas Corpus

A court order requiring explanation to why a prisoner is being held in custody.

Judicial Activism

Philosophy proposing judges should interpret the Constitution to reflect current conditions and values.

Stare Decisis

Rule of precedent wherein a rule or law in a judicial decision is binding on judges for the same question.

Ex Post Facto law

A retroactive criminal law that disadvantages a person.

Bill of Attainder

Legislative act inflicting punishment without a trial on named individuals or a group.

Due Process Clause

Clause in the Fifth Amendment limiting national government power; similar clause in the Fourteenth Amendment for states.

Selective Incorporation

Process by which Bill of Rights provisions are applied to state and local governments via the Fourteenth Amendment.

Establishment Clause

Clause in the First Amendment that forbids Congress from establishing a religion.